Vibrant and rare quarter-plate daguerreotype of an identified surgeon, J.R. Hardwick, who graduated from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, March 2, 1855, along with a note signed by Alexander Stephens.  While Mr. Hardwick graduated from the North this particular image is identified with a velvet mat stamp for J. W. Miller, Artist, Milledgeville, Georgia.  Craig’s Registry doesn’t list a Miller in Milledgeville; however, there was a daguerreian by that name listed in Savannah.  Could this possibly be a previous address before moving further south?  The image is identified with an official Jefferson Medical College certificate dated and signed by the Dean of the college and Hardwick.   There is also an odd flower basket seal in the top left corner of this document.  We have also found a listing from the school online which verifies his graduation. 

Included is a partial handwritten note which is an endorsement though hard to read. It is signed by Alexander Stephens on the back.  We can’t verify the signature but it appears very similar to known examples for the future Vice-President of the Confederate States.  We have provided scans of all the pertinent documents. 

As for the image, Hardwick is certainly a handsome man with style and grace.  His expression is serious and while it may be involuntary he seems to gently cradle his hand in his lap.  As a surgeon you can sense him protecting his most prized possession.  This brilliant image is in excellent condition with outstanding tones and contrast.  His face and lips have been lightly tinted and there is a beautiful band of perimeter tarnish present.  The plate had an older seal intact and it has been resealed with a new glass.  It is housed in a full case with a stunning blue velvet mat on the inside.  This is an historical piece with important documents that will enhance your collection!

$1,750